Young Duggal does it all: Peoria student named Hometown Hero

Ria Duggal said that growing up she wasn’t strong in academics, which was compounded by bullying she endured while at school.

“My pre-existing disdain for learning, paired with my inability to focus during class because of the bullying, tanked some of my grades,” said Duggal, 17.

But she was able to turn things around and set a high bar for herself as a young adult.

Duggal recently graduated from Basis Peoria with high honors including 15 Advanced Placement courses and two community college courses under her belt, as well as an impressive list of accolades to her name.

She is now attending Case Western Reserve University in Ohio.

Duggal said that when she was younger, peer tutoring and online learning platforms helped her improve academically and appreciate the enrichment that can come out of learning.

So, in recent years she has paid it forward at free peer-to-peer tutoring network Schoolhouse.world, where to date, she has tutored more than 430 learners in 30 countries.

“The fact that there exist academic spaces defined by community and growth is beautiful to me, and I am continually honored to be able to contribute to the missions of such spaces and to build similar spaces in my school and my community at large,” she said.

For Duggal’s service to the Peoria community, she has been named a Peoria Independent Hometown Hero in the Leader of Tomorrow category.

The Hometown Heroes Awards are a celebration of individuals who live or teach in the city, and Peoria businesses for their achievements and distinguished contributions to the community and beyond.

Duggal will be honored at an awards luncheon next year. The fourth annual Hometown Heroes luncheon will honor those nominated in 2024.

Jennifer Kloenne, Basis teacher and long-time mentor to Duggal, said her former student embodies the qualities of a future leader with her drive, creativity, and passion for making a positive impact in the community.

“Despite her numerous achievements, Ria remains humble and well-loved, never letting her responsibilities go to her head. Her involvement in both school and outside commitments highlights her dedication and character,” Kloenne said.

At Basis, Duggal served as president of National Art Honor Society, president and vice president of National French Honor Society, editor-in-chief of the Yearbook Team, art director of the Student Volunteer Organization, and art director of the Creative Writing Club.

She was also a finalist in the National Merit Scholarship Competition, earned an AP Scholar with Distinction title from Collegeboard, and earned three silver keys from the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.

Regarding community outreach, she volunteered for two years with the Hospice of the Valley and Desert Farms2Table.

She has also excelled in athletics, taking first place in her division and setting a new record at the 2024 Junior Olympic Archery Development State Indoor tournament as a member of the Corner Archery Elite team.

Kloenne said Duggal’s ability to balance her various responsibilities while maintaining outstanding academic performance is truly impressive.

“I have had the privilege of knowing Ria Duggal since fifth grade and have continued to mentor her as her art teacher throughout her senior year,” Kloenne said. “Ria is a phenomenal student who stands out not only for her exceptional talent in art but also for her remarkable leadership skills. As the president of the National Honor Society, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence and service. Additionally, she has successfully managed the yearbook, showcasing her organizational skills and dedication.”

Philip Haldiman can be reached at phaldiman@iniusa.org , or on X @philiphaldiman.